Lullabies of the World: Beloved and Popular International Songs That Soothe Children
We’re introducing lullabies from around the world.
Japan also has many lullabies, and many of you may remember songs your parents sang to you.
Among them, there might even be foreign lullabies you thought were Japanese.
In this article, we’ll introduce classic and popular foreign lullabies that have been sung across the globe and are recommended for soothing children.
These songs often have melodies and atmospheres different from Japanese lullabies, and listening to them may feel refreshing.
You might even discover a surprising song that helps your child fall asleep.
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[World Lullabies] Beloved and Popular Classics from Abroad that Soothe Children (21–30)
Dandini dandini dastana (Sleep, sleep)Toruko no komoriuta
The traditional Turkish lullaby “Dandini dandini dastana (Sleep, Sleep)” is a song that gently lulls you into a comfortable slumber as you listen.
Its repeating melody is one of the main reasons it induces sleep, thanks to its soothing monotony.
The lyrics reflect a parent’s heartfelt wish: that no matter what bad things may happen, God will protect you—so sleep well and grow strong.
It’s a song every mom and dad who hopes for their child’s healthy growth should know, and one they should let their little ones hear.
Mama HoChūka Jinmin Kyōwakoku no Komoriuta
It seems to be a children’s song meaning “I love Mommy more than anyone in the world.” It’s heartwarming, and you can tell the child is truly loved by their mother.
The relaxed, gentle melody conjures up an image of vast China.
The child’s singing voice makes it feel even more peaceful.
Jocelyn’s LullabyGodāru
Godard was a French composer active in the 19th century.
This is the aria from his opera Jocelyn.
Although the opera is now rarely performed, this piece alone has continued to be cherished and sung.
In Japan, it has long been familiar through a translation by Sakufu Kondo, who also provided Japanese lyrics for songs like “Lorelei” and “Heidenröslein.” While it is more complex than a typical lullaby and seems to require solid vocal ability to sing to a child, it is truly a wonderful piece—please enjoy it as a work to be listened to and appreciated.
Ali bali beeSukottorando no komoriuta
It’s a song composed about 170 years ago.
It is said to tell of a husband and wife who used to go around selling candy in Scotland long ago.
It seems the song, originally made for advertising, was passed down as a folk song.
It’s a fun piece with an easy-to-remember rhythm.
Mary’s LullabyMakkusu Rēgā
This is the 52nd piece from Simple Songs, a collection of 60 songs composed by the German composer Reger.
It is said to describe the Virgin Mary soothing Jesus amid a rosebush.
The violin’s sonority in particular is unhurried, conjuring up a beautifully serene scene.
Good night Dobrú nocSurobakia min’yō (Surovakia min’yō)
Known as an old Slovak folk lullaby, its title means “Good night” in Japanese.
There are arranged versions by the Russian pianist Kabalevsky and the Czech composer Dvořák, and there are also Japanese translations, so many people may have heard it.
Its wistful melody evokes the end of the day and seems sure to lead a baby gently into sleep.
With lyrics that convey a mother’s love, it soothes a baby’s heart—making it a recommended lullaby for bedtime.
Dodoi si dodoiMareeshia no Komoriuta
This is a lullaby that traveled from East Sumatra in Indonesia to Malaysia.
Even so, I was surprised by how enka-like it is.
More than that, I felt happy to find a culture similar to Japan’s.
It may not fit the typical image of a lullaby, but it’s interesting how they’re connected.